There are many personal reasons why you may wish to book an early reassurance scan, and these are always fully respected at Somerset Early Scans.
We are committed to treating every client with empathy, honesty, integrity, and genuine care. Our team takes time to understand your individual circumstances and supports you throughout your visit.
However, for the most accurate and reassuring results, we kindly recommend waiting until at least 6 weeks pregnant (calculated from the first day of your last menstrual period) before booking an early pregnancy scan.
Why Timing Matters in Early Pregnancy Ultrasound
If you’ve recently had a positive pregnancy test, it’s completely natural to want reassurance as early as possible. Many women search online for an early pregnancy scan soon after finding out they are pregnant.
However, scanning before 6 weeks of pregnancy often creates more anxiety than reassurance.
Early pregnancy develops very rapidly, but ultrasound findings are limited in the very early stages. Waiting until the right time significantly improves diagnostic accuracy and reduces uncertainty.
Understanding Early Pregnancy Development
In the very early stages of pregnancy, development follows a predictable sequence:
- The gestational sac is the first structure visible on ultrasound. Until something is seen within this sac, we cannot confidently confirm that the pregnancy is located within the uterus.
- A few days later, a yolk sac usually becomes visible. This provides nourishment to the developing pregnancy and appears before the baby itself.
- Just after 5 weeks, the baby (fetal pole) may begin to be seen, but it often takes several more days before the heartbeat becomes visible.
- Until a heartbeat is identified, ultrasound resolution is limited, and we cannot confidently confirm that the pregnancy is viable.
This is why scans performed too early can be inconclusive, even when everything is developing normally.
Why Scanning Too Early Can Cause More Anxiety
Even when conception dates feel certain, small variations in ovulation and fertilisation timing are common. A difference of just a few days can significantly affect what we are able to see on an ultrasound scan.
Before 6 weeks of pregnancy:
- It is unlikely that a heartbeat will be visible
- We may be unable to provide reassurance that the pregnancy is developing appropriately
- Findings may appear inconclusive or misleading, despite being normal for that gestational age
- Any uncertainty may result in referral to your local Early Pregnancy Unit, which can create additional and often unnecessary worry
Does Waiting Increase Risk?
No. Waiting until 6 weeks does not delay care or increase risk.
In fact, scanning at the appropriate gestational age:
- Improves diagnostic accuracy
- Reduces false or uncertain findings
- Avoids unnecessary repeat scans
- Supports emotional wellbeing during early pregnancy
In Summary: Why We Recommend Waiting Until 6 Weeks
While we completely understand the desire for early reassurance, attending too early may leave you feeling less reassured than before the scan.
Before 6 weeks, there is:
- An increased likelihood of hospital referral
- A decreased chance of reassurance
For the most reassuring and meaningful experience, we strongly recommend booking your early pregnancy scan when you are 6 weeks pregnant or more.
Our Approach at Somerset Early Scans
Our priority is to provide clear, compassionate, and evidence-based care. We always explain findings carefully and support you fully if follow-up or referral is required.
If you are unsure about your dates or symptoms, our experienced team is happy to advise you before booking.
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